동국대학교Dongguk University

About University

A leading center of modern Korean culture, Dongguk University is a prestigious private university that has embraced both tradition and innovation for over 100 years since its founding in 1906 in the heart of Seoul. Located at the foot of Namsan in Jung-gu, Seoul, this campus is rooted in Buddhist philosophy and practices the values of “consilience” and “convergence” across diverse fields such as the humanities, social sciences, arts, natural sciences, and medicine, nurturing creative talents who represent Korea. In short, Dongguk University is “the cradle of Korean culture, arts, humanities, and social leadership.” Dongguk’s greatest strengths lie in its longstanding reputation in the humanities, social sciences, and arts, as well as its rapidly emerging interdisciplinary educational environment. In particular, the Department of History Education and the Department of History at the Seoul Campus boast the nation’s top-tier educational and research environments, while the Department of Theatre & Film, Creative Writing, and the College of Arts are also known as “the cradle of Korean arts.” In practice, Dongguk has introduced various interdisciplinary and convergence major systems, enabling students to gain knowledge and experience across more than one department. Additionally, the Graduate School of Medicine, Graduate School of Business, and others offer internationally accredited professional programs that cultivate competencies meeting global standards. With multiple campuses nationwide, including WISE (Gyeongju) and Goyang, Dongguk also leads in nurturing region- and industry-specific talent. In this way, Dongguk University has established itself as a truly convergent university that bridges tradition and innovation, theory and practice, arts and sciences. The social influence of Dongguk University is evident from its list of distinguished alumni. Renowned actors such as Go Hyun-jung, Lee Jung-jae, Jun Ji-hyun, Han Hyo-joo, Jo In-sung, Choi Min-sik, and Kim Hye-soo pursued their dreams here, along with broadcaster Lee Kyung-kyu, singer Tony An, and numerous figures in politics, economics, and law. In addition, thousands of professors, researchers, sports stars, and creators from various fields are Dongguk graduates. Dongguk’s education is clearly a driving force behind leadership in Korea’s cultural, artistic, and humanities sectors, as well as innovation in various fields. Through its history of over 100 years, Dongguk’s spirit—having never abandoned the torch of national education even during the Japanese occupation and wartime—continues to this day. Dongguk’s support system for international students is also a distinctive point of pride. Dongguk University has received the Ministry of Education’s IEQAS (International Education Quality Assurance System) certification, earning trust in student visas, scholarships, and administrative support. Comprehensive services are provided, including English-taught courses, Korean language education, a global Buddy Program, and counseling and living support for international students. There are also a wide variety of scholarships for international students: depending on the previous semester’s GPA (3.0–4.0 or higher), students can receive scholarships covering 20%–60% of tuition, with additional scholarships for high scorers on the TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean). The Seoul Campus offers modern dormitories such as Namsan Haksa and Chungmu Haksa, which are affordable at 300,000–380,000 KRW per month, provide comfortable 2–3 person rooms, and are equipped with various amenities including cafeterias, convenience stores, laundry rooms, and gyms. A robust system is in place to support international students’ settlement and success, including dedicated counseling offices, career and employment support, and one-on-one guidance from the Office of International Relations. Campus life is another unmissable attraction of Dongguk University. The Seoul Campus, adjacent to Namsan, is directly connected to Myeong-dong, Dongdaemun, Euljiro, and other core cultural and business districts of Seoul, offering excellent transportation access. Subway and bus stations are within walking distance, and a variety of cultural spaces, cafes, restaurants, libraries, and sports facilities are well established both on and around campus. Students can experience a vibrant university culture through the “Dongguk Festival,” theater festivals, and various club activities, enjoying both a pleasant natural environment and the dynamism of the city. At Dongguk University, you can realize your dreams and potential on the global stage!